7th International Koukeri and Mask Festival
Anita Valentinova, source: actualno.com, 07.02.2009
Rakovski 6th-8th February 20091200 people took part in the 7th International koukeri and mask Festival 2009 in Rakovski. Koukeri send away bad spirits and all bad emotions, accumulated during the last year. The event is hold traditionally at the square of Rakovski. Six Groups from Macedonia and Plovdiv region opened the festival fireworks and unusual fire performances. The festival will last two days (6th until 8th of February). Breathtaking sinister masks, which are made of animal firs, are typical for groups from North Bulgaria. The beautiful costumes ornamented with flowers and beads, which actually symbolize the coming of spring, are in the base of the customs from Thracian region. According to young masked men, being a kouker is a passion which lasts for a lifetime. Prominent Bulgarian musicians, folklore singers and major groups take part in the rich program of the festival. Judges will select the best dance and the most original masks.
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